While some aspects of crypto are currently regulated by the FCA, it is very limited. However, this is set to change in October 2027, with new rules being implemented to make crypto more regulated.
The current system
The day-to-day operations of crypto are currently mostly unregulated, with the regulations dealing only with the authorisation of marketing and advertising of crypto. Businesses handling crypto must also be registered with the FCA’s anti-money laundering regulations.
Legislative changes
Two key pieces of legislation will set out the FCA’s scope in regulating crypto, with the framework known as the Crypto Roadmap aimed to be completed by October 2026. The changes in legislation are an amendment to the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and the Property Digital Asset Act that was passed in 2025. This recognises digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, as personal property, giving them enhanced protection.
Preparing for change
If your financial business participates in crypto asset activities, you should prepare for the change. Proposed activities that will be regulated under the new legislation include operating a trading platform that deals in qualifying crypto assets, arranging deals in qualifying crypto assets, and acting as an agent when dealing in qualifying crypto assets.
If you are unsure whether your business will be affected, it is worth using the services of FCA compliance consultants like https://www.adempi.co.uk/ to make sure you fully comply with the new regulations.
The FCA authorisation window for this opens on 30th September 2026 and will run until 28th February 2028, with applicants needing to demonstrate how they will meet the new requirements.